She had returned to Mackin's home in Omeath in North Louth with the officer to collect her belongings, as she was about to leave Mackin, having endured nearly a year of violent physical abuse at the thug’s hands.

On Thursday night, she broke her silence on the horrific double killing two years ago - and said she had no confidence in a Garda Ombudsman [GSOC] investigation.

The family of Ms Phillips now say gardaí refused to take a statement from her the day before the triple-shooting about a violent assault by Mackin on her - along with threats to kill her and her family.

A book of condolence at the local church hall in Omeath village, Louth, following Garda Golden's murder (Image: Alan Lewis - PhotopressBelfast.co.uk)

In a statement issued on behalf of Siobhan by her solicitor to RTE's Prime Time, she said: "It is my firm belief that the tragic and unfortunate events of October 10 2015, could and should have been prevented by An Garda Siochana.

"My thoughts and prayers are constantly with the family of Garda Tony Golden.

"Whilst I have made progress, my recovery is far from complete and I therefore wish to focus on my ongoing medical treatment.

"However I have no confidence in a GSOC investigation. I believe the only way forward is a full public inquiry."